ATC Midnight-Shift Backups Detailed

The FAA has updated JO 7210.822, a guiding document for ATC facilities in determining back-up procedures when a control tower or Tracon is staffed with only a single air traffic controller. The August 15 ruling prohibits automated aircraft handoffs from one facility to another when only one person is on duty. Center, approach and tower controllers will be kept busy with communications checks every 15 minutes during the entire midnight shift.